About this book

Book Summary

In the ancient Northumbrian town of Fulwich, there is an old man
whom nobody knows. This man, Thorston by name, has lived a secret
life so that he may stay alive--forever. Call him an alchemist
but his possession of The Book Without Words contains the secret of
immortality. But to make this secret a reality, he must sacrifice
his minion, Odo, a coal-black raven, and Sybil, his
thirteen-year-old servant. Just as Thorton is on the brink of
immortality, Sybil decides she wants to live her own life, and Odo
wants the gold he believes Thorton has made. Who then will live,
and who will die? And who will get the gold?

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Reviews

Media Reviews

'Many fans of Avi's 2003 Newbery Award winner Crispin (2002) will
miss the feeling of immersion in a narrative conferred by a single
point of view even as they ponder the sweeping messages about the
transience of life and the evils of avarice.' - Booklist
'This book is filled with engaging, craftily chosen words.' - Publishers Weekly.

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Reader Reviews

The Amazing Theory " The Book Without Words" is a very fascinating book that brings you into a lot of fantasy. But it could be weird. Thorston has his raven and is going out for an adventures. What do they do? Their adventures are just beginning-they must contend with town authorities, a strange monk, and two green-eyed boys, all of whom are interested in the alchemist's secrets. What happens next?...you will have to read the book!!!! " The Book Without Words" Get it NOW!!
sadie

Elena's review I think that the book without words is a very entertaining book and very educational book to read. I think that kids in sixth grade should read this book for fun.

Author Information

Avi Author Biography

Apparently Avi acquired his name from his twin sister, Emily, who chose not to call him Edward or Irvin but, for reasons unknown, to call him Avi. As the author says, it doesn't stand for anything, or mean anything, it just is who he is.

Avi is the author of more than sixty books, including Crispin: The Cross of Lead, a Newbery Medal winner, and Crispin: At the Edge of the World. His other acclaimed titles include The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle and Nothing But the Truth, both Newbery Honor Books, and most recently The Seer of Shadows. He lives with his family in Colorado.

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